“Traveling alone puts you in touch with your own interests and rhythms. It lets you discover who you are when no one is looking.”

Waugh also notes that the confidence-building nature of traveling on your own is especially great for women, giving female solo travelers an outlet for their interests and the ability to go outside their comfort zones.

“Traveling alone puts you in touch with your own interests... Photo-6134459.83471 - SFGate

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“Start small. A short trip to a nearby place (same culture, same language) is a good place to begin.”

For those just testing out the idea of solo travel, going to a nearby domestic destination or even somewhere just a car ride away can help alleviate fears.

Photo: Images By Fabio, Getty Images/Flickr RM

“Start small. A short trip to a nearby place (same culture, same...

“Start small. A short trip to a nearby place (same culture,... Photo-6134460.83471 - SFGate

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“Pack light. A carry on bag is enough.”

Being on your own means you’re the only one who will have to lug around those heavy bags. Save yourself the trouble by bringing the bare minimum, just enough to cover your needs. Plus, leaving some room for trinkets you’ll pick up during your travels is a must.

Photo: Tuandang, Getty Images/Flickr RF

“Pack light. A carry on bag is enough.”

Being on your own means...

“Pack light. A carry on bag is enough.” Being on your... Photo-6134461.83471 - SFGate

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“There are a few misconceptions - that you'll be lonely, that it's tiring to be responsible for everything, that it's dangerous.”

For each misconception there is a realistic solution: meeting people throughout your travels, pacing yourself and simply being aware and watching out for yourself are some of Waugh’s tips to dispelling these solo travel myths.

Photo: 27106, Getty Images

“There are a few misconceptions - that you'll be lonely, that...

“There are a few misconceptions - that you'll be lonely,... Photo-6134462.83471 - SFGate

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“When you are solo, you are very open to the world and people around you. When you are with a travel partner, you spend a lot of time focused on that person. This limits your experience of a destination.”

Unlike travel with a partner or group, when you have to negotiate itineraries to match everyone’s liking, traveling on your own gives you the freedom to do whatever your heart desires. Enjoy it!

Photo: Paul Bradbury, Getty Images/OJO Images RF

“When you are solo, you are very open to the world and people...

“When you are solo, you are very open to the world and people... Photo-6134463.83471 - SFGate

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“Be patient. Give yourself time to land in every new destination and get a feel for it.”

Depending on your itinerary, you should give yourself some time to adjust to both the time zone and the local culture. Getting a feel for a city will make your travels that much more enjoyable.

Photo: Simon Watson, Getty Images

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“Be patient. Give yourself time to land in every new... Photo-6134464.83471 - SFGate

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“Stay in public with people you've just met as public is safer than private.”

This may seem like a no-brainer but it’s important to remember especially when traveling on your own. Stick to restaurants, bars and landmarks as opposed to someone’s private home.

“Stay in public with people you've just met as public is... Photo-6134465.83471 - SFGate

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“Solo, you have to do it all. You get much more of the confidence-building that travel offers.”

When traveling with someone, Waugh notes you lean on them to a certain extent. If your partner is good at reading maps, you’ll rely on him/her to navigate, etc. When you’re on your own, you alone will be in charge of all the aspects that go along with travel. Traveling solo will be much more beneficial in honing these skill sets.

Photo: Lechatnoir, Getty Images/Vetta

“Solo, you have to do it all. You get much more of the...

“Solo, you have to do it all. You get much more of the... Photo-6134466.83471 - SFGate

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“Be curious. Ask lots of questions and you will not only have a more interesting time but you will meet more people, have more unique experiences and be safer.”

The best way to learn more about the destination you’re visiting is to ask questions. From your taxi driver to your waitress, ask around for great tips from locals.

Photo: Frank Van Delft, Getty Images/Cultura RF

“Be curious. Ask lots of questions and you will not only have a...

“Be curious. Ask lots of questions and you will not only have... Photo-6134467.83471 - SFGate

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"My favorite individual experiences always come down to the people I meet along the way."

Traveling on your own opens up a world of opportunities. In addition to experiencing different places and meeting new friends, you'll make unforgettable memories along the way.